The California Senate Fellows program was established in 1973 to provide participants with insight into the legislative process. The fellowship program's primary goals include exposing individuals with diverse life experiences and backgrounds to the legislative process. The program is jointly sponsored by the Senate and the Center for California Studies at California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State).
Eighteen California Senate Fellows are selected each year to serve as full-time Senate staff for 11 months beginning in November. Fellows are assigned to Senator and work as part of the staff team in the Capitol. Responsibilities include helping develop legislative proposals, researching and analyzing bills, drafting legislative support documents, meeting with stakeholders, and serving the constituents of their respective Senator’s district.
Anyone who will be at least 20 years of age and a graduate of a four-year college or university with a GPA of 2.5 or higher is eligible to apply. There is no preferred major. Individuals with advanced degrees and those in mid-career are encouraged to apply. Although no previous political or legislative experience is necessary, applicants should have a strong interest in public service. A month long orientation provides background on the legislative process and major policy issues to prepare the fellows for placement.
Fellows receive a monthly stipend of $4,888 plus full health, vision, and dental benefits. They also earn 6 graduate units from the Sacramento State Political Science Department upon completion of a weekly academic seminar.
Program details can be viewed by clicking below.